rabbit.reviews

Granite Gear Blaze 60 vs Gregory Baltoro 75 / Deva 70

Side-by-side comparison based on expert reviews and community consensus.

Granite Gear Blaze 60
Best Lightweight
Gregory Baltoro 75 / Deva 70
Best for Heavy Loads
Price
$270-$300
$228-$370
Summary
At just 3.0 lbs with a 60L capacity, the Blaze 60 is the sweet spot for ultralight-curious backpackers who don't want to sacrifice comfort or features. The removable brain and hip belt convert into a fanny pack for day hikes from camp.
Extra-cushioned hip belt, shoulder harness, and back panel make the Baltoro 75 (men's) and Deva 70 (women's) the most comfortable option for carrying 40-50 lb loads on week-long trips. The ultraplush lumbar pad molds to your back and prevents hip belt drift.
Pros
  • Only 3.0 lbs measured weight with 60L capacity — best weight-to-volume ratio in its class
  • Supports loads up to 50 lbs despite ultralight construction
  • Removable brain and hip belt combine into a fanny pack for day hikes
  • Nine compression straps handle variable loads; breathable back panel and front access zipper
  • Ultraplush lumbar pad molds to lower back and prevents hip belt from sliding under heavy loads
  • Comfortably carries up to 50 lbs — more than most packs on this list
  • Available in multiple torso sizes (S/M/L) for precise fit
  • Highly rated by REI staff and customers: Baltoro has 4.7/5 stars from 126 reviews
Cons
  • Small buckles are difficult to operate with gloves in cold weather
  • Less feature-rich than the Osprey Atmos AG LT (fewer pockets, less adjustability)
  • Not as comfortable as the Atmos AG LT for very heavy loads
  • Heavy at 4 lbs 12.8 oz (S) to 5 lbs 6.4 oz (L) for the Baltoro 75
  • Overkill for weekend trips or lighter loads under 30 lbs
  • Premium price around $370
Our take
This is the pack I'd recommend to anyone who wants to go lighter without going full cottage-brand ultralight. It carries up to 50 lbs comfortably at 3 lbs — that combination is genuinely rare.
If you're going out for 7+ days or carrying winter/climbing gear, the Baltoro/Deva is the pack. Yes, it's heavy — but when you're hauling 45 lbs, the extra cushioning pays for itself in spinal health.
Buy
The verdict

Get the Granite Gear Blaze 60 if you want lightweight performance. Get the Gregory Baltoro 75 / Deva 70 if you value for heavy loads more. Both are excellent choices in hiking backpacks.